Here’s something you need to know. The housing market is returning to a healthier, more normal state. And even though it may not sound like it, this shift is a good thing.

It’s what you should expect. It’s just that the intense seller’s market has skewed our expectations over the past few years.

However, what you need to remember is that there are still plenty of opportunities to be had if you’re thinking about selling, whether that’s next month or next year. You need to stay up-to-date on what’s happening in the market and have a strategy that matches the moment. Here’s your update.

1. Inventory’s Up. Buyer Power Is Coming Back.

According to the latest data, the number of homes for sale is rising back toward more normal levels (see graph below):

However, inventory growth will vary significantly depending on your location.

If you’re in a market where the number of homes for sale is back to normal, buyers may have more sway than you’d expect. That doesn’t mean buyers have all the power – it just means they have more choices, so your home has to stand out.

However, if you live in an area where inventory is still limited, you may see more buyers competing for your house.

No matter where you are, the key is to work with a pro who can help you adjust your game plan for your local market.

2. The Right Price Matters More Than Ever

With more homes to choose from, today’s buyers are quick to skip over homes that feel overpriced. That’s why pricing your house right is the secret to selling quickly and for top dollar. That’s a point Realtor.com drives home:

“ . . . a seller listing a well-priced, move-in ready home should have little problem finding a buyer.”

Miss the mark, though, and you may have to backtrack. Today, about 1 in 5 sellers (19.1%) are reducing their asking price to attract buyers (see map below):

Here’s how to avoid being one of those sellers who have to reduce their asking price. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, says: What is the best way to obtain that information? Lean on your local agent. They have the expertise to set a price that sells in any market. Because if your price isn’t compelling, it won’t sell.

3. Flexibility Wins Negotiations

Gone are the days when buyers waived inspections and appraisals to finalize a deal. Now, because they have more homes to choose from, buyers can request items such as repairs, credits, and assistance with closing costs. And data from Redfin shows nearly 44.4% of sellers are willing to negotiate (see graph below):

The takeaway? This isn’t a bad market. It’s just a different one. And it aligns with more typical years in the housing market, such as 2019. The savviest sellers are those who take advantage of every opportunity to work with buyers and make their house shine.

And it’ll help if you think of concessions as tools, not losses. Use them to bridge gaps, sweeten deals, and get across the finish line. And don’t stress. Since prices went up roughly 55% over the past five years, you’ve got plenty of room to make a concession or two and still come out ahead.

Just be sure to work with your agent to understand which concessions could be the key to sealing the deal.

Bottom Line

Sellers who are going to succeed in the weeks and months ahead are those who understand this market shift and lean into it with the right expectations and strategy.

Let’s talk about what’s working in our local area right now – and how we can make those wins work for you whenever you’re ready to make a move.

Here’s something you need to know. The housing market is returning to a healthier, more normal state. And even though it may not sound like it, this shift is a good thing.

It’s what you should expect. It’s just that the intense seller’s market has skewed our expectations over the past few years.

However, what you need to remember is that there are still plenty of opportunities to be had if you’re thinking about selling, whether that’s next month or next year. You need to stay up-to-date on what’s happening in the market and have a strategy that matches the moment. Here’s your update.

1. Inventory’s Up. Buyer Power Is Coming Back.

According to the latest data, the number of homes for sale is rising back toward more normal levels (see graph below):

However, inventory growth will vary significantly depending on your location.

If you’re in a market where the number of homes for sale is back to normal, buyers may have more sway than you’d expect. That doesn’t mean buyers have all the power – it just means they have more choices, so your home has to stand out.

However, if you live in an area where inventory is still limited, you may see more buyers competing for your house.

No matter where you are, the key is to work with a pro who can help you adjust your game plan for your local market.

2. The Right Price Matters More Than Ever

With more homes to choose from, today’s buyers are quick to skip over homes that feel overpriced. That’s why pricing your house right is the secret to selling quickly and for top dollar. That’s a point Realtor.com drives home:

“ . . . a seller listing a well-priced, move-in ready home should have little problem finding a buyer.”

Miss the mark, though, and you may have to backtrack. Today, about 1 in 5 sellers (19.1%) are reducing their asking price to attract buyers (see map below):

Here’s how to avoid being one of those sellers who have to reduce their asking price. Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, says: What is the best way to obtain that information? Lean on your local agent. They have the expertise to set a price that sells in any market. Because if your price isn’t compelling, it won’t sell.

3. Flexibility Wins Negotiations

Gone are the days when buyers waived inspections and appraisals to finalize a deal. Now, because they have more homes to choose from, buyers can request items such as repairs, credits, and assistance with closing costs. And data from Redfin shows nearly 44.4% of sellers are willing to negotiate (see graph below):

The takeaway? This isn’t a bad market. It’s just a different one. And it aligns with more typical years in the housing market, such as 2019. The savviest sellers are those who take advantage of every opportunity to work with buyers and make their house shine.

And it’ll help if you think of concessions as tools, not losses. Use them to bridge gaps, sweeten deals, and get across the finish line. And don’t stress. Since prices went up roughly 55% over the past five years, you’ve got plenty of room to make a concession or two and still come out ahead.

Just be sure to work with your agent to understand which concessions could be the key to sealing the deal.

Bottom Line

Sellers who are going to succeed in the weeks and months ahead are tthosthose whorstand this market shift and lean into it with the right expectations and ttratstrategy’s talk about what’s working in our local area right now – and how we can make those wins work for you whenever you’re ready to make a move.

Fear of a recession is back in the headlines. And if you’re thinking about buying or selling sometime soon, that may leave you wondering if you should reconsider the timing of your move.

A recent survey by John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC) and Keeping Current Matters (KCM) shows 68% of people are delaying plans to buy or sell due to economic uncertainty.

But it may not be for the reason you think. Not everyone is holding off because they’re worried. Some buyers are waiting because they’re hopeful. According to Realtor.com:

“In 2025Q1, 3 in 10 (29.8% of) surveyed homebuyers said a recession would make them at least somewhat more likely to purchase a home . . . This reflects a common dynamic where some buyers see a downturn as an opportunity. If the economy enters a recession, the Federal Reserve may respond by lowering interest rates to stimulate activity, potentially putting downward pressure on mortgage rates and easing affordability concerns. As a result, buyers—especially those with limited down payments—might view a recession as a more favorable time to enter the market.”

And there’s some truth to the idea that a recession could bring about lower mortgage rates. Historical data show that mortgage rates typically drop during economic slowdowns. That’s not guaranteed, but it’s a typical pattern. Looking at data from the last six recessions, you can see mortgage rates fell each time (see graph below):

But here’s what those buyers may not be considering. Many of those hopeful buyers are assuming something else will happen too – that home prices will drop. And that’s where history tells a different story.

According to data from Cotality (formerly CoreLogic), home prices went up in four of the last six recessions (see graph below)

So, while many people think that if a recession hits, home prices will fall like they did in 2008, that was an exception, not the rule. It was the only time the market saw such a steep drop in prices. And it hasn’t happened since, mainly because there’s still a long-standing inventory deficit, even as the number of homes on the market is rising.

Since prices tend to stay on whatever path they’re already on, know this: prices are still holding steady or rising in most metros, although at a much slower pace. Therefore, a significant drop is unlikely. As Robert Frick, Corporate Economist with Navy Federal Credit Union, explains:

“Hopes that an economic slowdown will depress housing prices are wishful thinking at this point . . .”

Bottom Line

If you’ve been waiting for a recession to make your move, it’s essential to understand what happens during one and what likely won’t. Lower mortgage rates could be on the table. But lower home prices? That’s far less likely.

Don’t wait for a market that may never come. If you’re thinking about buying or selling, let’s connect to talk through what today’s economy means for you – and make a brilliant plan that works in your favor, regardless of what the headlines say.

Life can feel a bit unpredictable these days. What’s happening with inflation? The economy? The housing market? But in the middle of all that uncertainty, there’s one thing a lot of people still crave – a place to call their own.

Because when everything else feels up in the air, home can be the thing that grounds you. As the experts at 1000WATT put it:

“Homeownership isn’t primarily financial anymore. . . Across all demographics, emotional and lifestyle factors consistently outrank wealth-building as motivators.”

Here’s what owning a home can mean for you, especially right now.

Freedom To Make It Yours

When you’re a homeowner, you don’t need to ask permission to paint a wall, hang a gallery of your favorite art, or redo the floors. You have the freedom to create a space that reflects who you are, all the way from the light fixtures to the paint colors.

Pro Tip: Just be mindful about exterior changes, if you buy a home in a community that has a homeowner’s association (HOA). There may be some approvals you’d need to get for select outdoor changes.

More Privacy, More Peace

Owning your home can give you a sense of peace you didn’t even realize you were missing. It’s a comfortable place where you feel secure and can relax, enjoy your privacy, and unwind after a long day.

Room To Grow

Whether it’s starting a family, setting up a home office for your new career, or finally building that home gym in the garage so you can hit your fitness goals, owning gives you the space to live life on your terms.

A Stronger Sense of Community

When you own, you’re not just passing through, you’re putting down roots. That often leads to stronger ties with your community, more connection to your neighborhood, and a deeper feeling of belonging where you live. That’s very different from the temporary nature of renting.

A Feeling of Accomplishment

There’s something powerful about getting the keys and walking into your own front door for the first time. It’s more than pride, it’s personal satisfaction. A quiet and meaningful sense of “I did this.”

Sure, it’s not always easy for first-time homebuyers right now. The market today requires patience, strategy, and sometimes a little creative problem-solving. But it’s still worth it. As Realtor.com says:

“Buying a home is a major commitment, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.”

When you get those keys in your hand, when you realize this place is where your life gets to unfold, it clicks. The stress, the waiting, the planning – all of it led you home.

Bottom Line

There are a lot of things out of your control right now. But building a life in a space that’s truly yours? That’s still possible with the right strategy and expert help. Let’s talk about how to make it happen.

What would it mean for you to finally have a place to call your own?

Are you considering buying a home, but unsure if now is the right time? Many people are waiting and wondering what the market will do next. But here’s something only the savviest buyers realize:

This summer might be the best time to buy in years. Here are three big reasons why.

1. You Have More Negotiating Power

After several years of sellers having all the leverage, the balance of power is starting to shift. Check out the graph below. It uses data from Redfin to show that right now, there are more sellers active in the market than buyers:

Take a look at what happened from 2021 to roughly 2023. During that period, there were far more buyers (represented by the blue line) looking to purchase homes than there were homes for sale (represented by the green line). That intense competition, bidding wars, and the exponential price growth the market saw back then.

Now, the market has shifted, and buyers are regaining their negotiating power as a result. With more sellers than buyers, sellers may be more willing to pay for repairs, cover some of your closing costs, or lower their asking price. The return of this kind of normal balance is a sign of a much healthier, more sustainable market. As Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), explains:

“ . . . with housing inventory levels reaching five-year highs, homebuyers in nearly every region of the country are in a better position to negotiate more favorable terms.”

And just in case you’re wondering, there are too many homes on the market; here’s what I know. Overall inventory is still lower than usual, so you don’t have a nationwide oversupply or a crash.

2. You Have More Choices

The number of homes for sale has significantly improved. Based on the latest data from Realtor.com, more homes were listed this May than in May 2024 or May 2023 (see graph below):

And more homes for sale means more choices. There’s a good, perfect match just hit the market – or it will soon. So, it’sit’srit’s a greatexplore whatwhat’what’ss Jake Krimmel, Economist at Realtor.com, says:

“With more fresh inventory hitting the market, buyers have better opportunities to find a home that fits their needs.”

3. You May See More Flexibility on Price

With more homes for sale, they’re at the same frenzied pace they were just a few years ago.

Since homes are taking longer to sell, some sellers are choosing to lower their asking prices to attract buyers or expedite the process. And thatthat’sbe-expected. According to Realtor.com, 19.1% of listings had a price cut this May (see graph below):

That’s the aight month where more sellers have reduced their prices. As May, the volume of prices has returned to normal levels. This is yet another sign of the return to a more balanced market.

While you shouldn’t expect to count, you may find sellers are a bit more flexible right now. As a recent article from The Street says:

“Although sellers have had the upper hand in the housing market over the past few years, houses are now staying on the market for longer, shifting negotiating power back to homebuyers.”

Just remember, most sellers still aren’t truthful – only those who overprice to start, this isn’t it; it’s a sign that sellers have outdated expectations in a shifting market.

Bottom Line

This summer brings a powerful combo for buyers: more homes to choose from, less competition, and sellers being more flexible on pricing. If you’re ready to move, let’s connect to find the right home this summer, marking a new chapter in your next home journey.

It’s hard to let go of a 3% mortgage rate. There’s no question about it. It’s the main reason why so many homeowners have delayed their move-in in recent years. But here’s something to consider.

While your low rate might be ideal, it doesn’t compensate for being too cramped, having a staircase your knees can no longer handle, or being 1,000 miles from your family. And those real-life needs are pushing more sellers off the fence despite today’s rates.

Data shows the share of homeowners with a mortgage rate below 3% is dropping as more people move. And, as a result, the share of homeowners taking on a mortgage rate above 6% is rising, too (see graph below):

The Biggest Reasons People Are Moving Right Now

Why are some homeowners willing to take on a higher rate? A survey from Realtor.com helps shed light on that. It shows 79% of homeowners considering selling today are doing it out of necessity. And that same survey says most of the necessary reasons people are moving are non-financial (see graph below):

Do any of these reasons resonate with you, too?

• You Need More Space: Whether it’s a new baby, children needing their rooms, or having your parents move in so it’s easier to care for them, outgrowing your space can happen quickly.
• You Need Less Space: The kids are out of the house now, and you’re craving a life that’s a little simpler. Downsizing can be a significant relief: fewer rooms to clean, less to maintain, and lower utility bills, too.
• You Want to Be Closer to Family: Whether it’s to help with grandchildren or care for aging parents, sometimes the pull of being near loved ones outweighs the math.
• A Relationship in Your Life Has Changed: Divorce, separation, or moving in together after a marriage or new partnership – all can create the need for a fresh start and a new place to call home.
• Your Job Is Taking You Somewhere New: If you have finally landed your dream job or your partner’s company is relocating, you may need to move too.

What About Mortgage Rates?

Yes, experts expect mortgage rates to ease, but slowly. The latest projections show only modest declines this year, not the 3% you may be hoping for (see graph below):

So, while waiting for a significant drop in rates might sound strategic, it could just mean more time feeling stuck in a space that no longer fits. And for many, that waiting game has already gone on long enough.

According to Realtor.com, nearly two-thirds of potential sellers have been considering a move for over a year. If you’re one of them, maybe it’s time to ask:

How much longer are you willing to press pause on your life?

Bottom Line

Perhaps your current house was a good fit for your life five years ago. But that “for now” house you bought in 2020? It just can’t deliver on what you need in 2025. And that’s not just okay, it’s normal.

Mortgage rates are part of the equation, for sure. But the bigger question is:

What kind of home do you need to support the life you’re living now?

Let’s talk about what’s changed and what kind of move would take your life forward.

Selling your house without an agent as a “For Sale by Owner” (FSBO) may be something you’ve considered. However, you should be aware that, in today’s rapidly changing market, an increasing number of homeowners are deciding that it’s just not worth the risk.

According to the latest data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the number of homeowners selling without an agent has hit an all-time low (see graph below):

And for the small number of homeowners who do decide to sell on their own, data shows they’re still not confident they’re making a good choice.

A recent survey finds that three out of every four homeowners who don’t plan to use an agent have doubts about whether that’s the right decision.

And here’s why. The market is changing – not in a bad way, but in a way that requires a more innovative and strategic approach. And having a real estate expert in your corner pays off.

Here are just two examples of how an agent’s expertise makes a difference.

1. Getting the Price Right in a Market That’s Evolving

One of the biggest hurdles when selling a house on your own is figuring out the right price. It’s not as simple as picking a number that sounds good or selling your home for what your neighbor’s sold for a few years back – you need to hit the bullseye for where the market is right now. Without an agent’s help, you’re more likely to miss the mark. As Zillow explains:

“Agents are pros when it comes to pricing properties and have their finger on the pulse of your local market. They understand current buying trends and can provide insight into how your home compares to others for sale nearby.”

They know what’s relatable, where wholesalers are willing to pay in your area, and how to position your house to sell quickly. That kind of insight can have a significant impact, especially in a market that’s balancing out.

2. Handling (and Understanding) the Legal Documents

There is also a substantial amount of documentation involved in selling a house, including everything from disclosures to contracts. A mistake can have significant legal implications. This is another area where having an agent can help.

They’ve handled these documents countless times and know exactly what’s needed to keep everything on track, so you avoid delays. And now that buyers are including more contingencies again and asking for concessions, your agent will guide you through each step of the form, ensuring it’s completed correctly and documented accurately the first time.

3. Selling Your House Quickly Even in a Shifting Market

Now that the number of homes for sale has increased, homes aren’t selling at the same pace as they were. But you can still sell quickly if you have a proven plan to help your house stand out.

Just remember, homeowners don’t have the same network or marketing tools an experienced agent does. So, if you want the process to happen fast, you’ll likely want a pro by your side.

Bottom Line

Having the right agent and the right strategy is key in a shifting market. Let’s connect so you don’t have to take this on solo – and so you can list with confidence, knowing you’ve got expert guidance from day one.